Temporomandibular joint disorder is a fairly common health problem that primarily affects the muscles in the jaws. Physical stress in the teeth, muscles of jaw, neck and muscles, blood vessels, ligaments and nerves and cartilage disks of the joints as well as pain and soreness in the mouth while opening and closing it are just some of the many discomforts that can be felt when suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder. While there are various ways to relieve the pain and discomforts induced by this joint problem, one of the most effective is that of yoga for TMJ.

Yoga for TMJ is proven to relax the muscles found in the jaws and in the face where the disorder is usually found, which is why many people suffering from such joint problem, especially those who don’t have enough money to afford expensive medicines, often apply different relaxation techniques in order to reduce the discomforts and pain brought about by their condition. In order to execute this treatment, certain jaw adjustments need to be done. Start by sitting in a Sukahasana position (easy pose) and open your mouth as wide as you can. While in this position, alternately tilt your head from your right to left shoulders and take slow, deep breathes in between, but make sure that your breathing is controlled by your abdominal muscles. Continue this exercise for about two to three minutes.

Next, place you hand on the side of your jaw which is dislocated. Make certain that your fingers’ centers are placed on your cheekbones, while your palm is flatly set on your jaw. While applying a soft pushing pressure, open your mouth widely in a slow motion and then shut it back slowly as well. Facilitate this exercise at least 10-15 times for several sessions each day. Do not forget to do deep breathing as this will help relax your jaw muscles.

Do poses that will help your blood to flow to your jaws. You don’t have to actually perform complex techniques like headstands in order to complete this routine. The downward facing dog position is probably the simplest way to accomplish this goal. Simply touch both of your hands to the floor while your head is facing downwards, then slowly lift your pelvis and thigh pointing to the ceiling. After this, bring your heels down to the floor as far as they can reach and hold this pose for about a minute or two.

Many people who are suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder noted that they have uneven or rotated shoulders and that their condition have improved when they addressed their shoulder problems. Hence, examine the symmetry of your shoulders in front of the mirror, and if you notice that they are not symmetrical try to do a supported shoulder-stand. Neatly pile two folded blankets on top of each other and lie on your back with your shoulders situated on the blanket, then bend your knees while your feet are still grounded on the ground. In a slow manner, bring your legs upwards and using your arms support your back until your toes are pointing to the ceiling, and hold this pose for 30 seconds.

The simple acts of doing seated breathing and meditative exercises are also important components of yoga for TMJ. This is because these two elements can greatly help in relaxing your jaw muscles, freeing them from the tension induced by temporomandibular joint disorder. To do this, sit in a position that you feel comfortable with. Then, release the tension you feel by breathing in and out slow until you feel that your mouth and jaw are relaxed. Once you are able to facilitate these simple exercises, you’ll immediately feel relieved from the pain and discomforts induced by temporomandibular joint disorder.